Foxed: Michael Wolff on politics and media after Rupert Murdoch
Sep 28, 2023
auto_awesome
Michael Wolff, long-time chronicler of the Murdoch empire and biographer, discusses the implications of Rupert Murdoch stepping down as executive chairman for News Corp and Fox, along with the impact on general elections in the U.S. and U.K. Later, the panel explores topics such as succession within Fox, Rupert Murdoch's changing perception of Donald Trump, and the potential challenges and impact of Fox News on the 2024 general election.
Lachlan Murdoch's influence on political endorsements may pose a conundrum for Fox as they balance catering to their audience's preference for Trump while considering other family members' perspectives and the defamation lawsuit they are facing.
Fox News faces the challenge of maintaining their audience share, which is closely tied to the Trump base, while potentially disappointing Rupert Murdoch, who reportedly detests Trump, as they navigate the pending defamation lawsuit and financial challenges.
Deep dives
Continuity of Power in the Murdoch Empire
The recent transition of power from Rupert Murdoch to his son Lachlan at Fox Corporation may not bring significant change to the media empire. While Lachlan has taken over as executive chairman, Rupert remains in charge and holds the favor that determines leadership. This shift may have been prompted by a $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit faced by Fox, as well as the challenges of running a company under the management of a 92-year-old. The potential influence of Lachlan on political endorsements, such as supporting Trump in the US presidential election, may pose a conundrum for both Fox and Lachlan, balancing the desires of their audience while also considering other family members' perspectives.
The Dilemma of Choosing Between Trump and Fox's Audience
Fox News faces a difficult choice as they navigate between catering to their audience's preference for Donald Trump and potentially disappointing Rupert Murdoch, who reportedly detests Trump. The network's audience has become synonymous with the Trump base, making it challenging for Fox to shift support to other candidates. Lachlan Murdoch, the new chairman, may be tempted to embrace Trump to retain audience share, but such a move could result in backlash from competitors and other family members with different political leanings. This decision is further complicated by the pending defamation lawsuit, financial challenges, and the desire to maintain ratings as the network's top priority.
Potential Impact on UK Politics and Labour Party
In the UK, Murdoch's influence on politics has historically been significant. While it remains uncertain which way the Murdoch family will lean in the next general election, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer will likely seek the support of powerful figures like Rupert Murdoch. However, the landscape has shifted with media fragmentation and a decreased grip of Murdoch-owned outlets. Unlike in 1997, the impact of Murdoch's support may not be as influential, but it still holds value in terms of association with power and potential endorsement. Labour's approach will need to balance gaining support while avoiding alienating their base or regions of the country.
Uncertain Future and Legacy of the Murdoch Dynasty
The transition of power in the Murdoch empire raises questions about the future and legacy of the family's media dominance. Connections between media influence and electoral outcomes may not carry the same weight as before, given the fragmented media landscape and changing consumption patterns. Rupert Murdoch's dislike and detestation of Donald Trump have been noted, but attempting to redirect Fox News away from Trump poses challenges due to the network's loyal audience base. On the other hand, if Fox were to shift away from Trump, it could impact the general election, although it may also harm the network's position. Ultimately, the Murdoch family's decisions will be influenced by business interests, politics, and the desire to secure a winning position.
The exit of the most powerful player at News Corp has made headlines on both sides of the Atlantic. At 92, Rupert Murdoch has decided to step down as executive chairman, making way for his son Lachlan. But will much change, given Rupert Murdoch's reputation for being close to the action?
In this week's episode of Power Play, host Anne McElvoy talks to Michael Wolff, long-time chronicler of the Murdoch empire and biographer. His latest book, "The Fall: The End of Fox News and the Murdoch Dynasty," is published this week.
They discuss what's at stake for News Corp and Fox and what the change at the top will mean for general elections in the U.S. and the U.K. next year.
Later, Anne talks to POLITICO’s assembled “Power Panel” to chart their way through a fast-changing media and political landscape. She's joined by Jonathan Martin, POLITICO's senior political reporter in Washington, and Emilio Casalicchio, author of London Playbook PM.